Weird Looking?

A company called Emotiv Systems is set to revolutionize gaming and human computer interaction with a lightweight wireless helmet that can control elements of video games by reading a persons thoughts, expressions and emotions. The sleek looking device is called “The Epoc” and will be available in time for the holidays this year, retailing for the surprisingly low price of $299.

The device detects electrical signals from the brain using special sensors and these signals are translated into actions on the screen. For example, say you just defeated an opponent in a fight. You would feel happy, and your character’s avatar would express your emotion with a smile. If you are cornered by your enemies and worried you might not make it out alive, your avatar would display an expression of fear. This adds a new level of realism to gaming, making your virtual character far more lifelike.

You can also manipulate objects on the screen. For example, you could lift an object, fire a gun, raise a shield, run, etc. The device can detect over 30 emotions, expressions and actions. As for accuracy and response time, I haven’t seen one in use, so we’ll have to wait for the reviews. The headset will come with a game from Emotiv, but the company claims it will also work with existing video games.

Even if it turns out that it still needs a little tweaking, make no mistake, this technology is a huge advancement in human to machine interaction. In fact, IBM is working with the company to create applications beyond video gaming. This could really transform how humans and machines interact. For example, in the future you could potentially use computers without a mouse, freeing your hands to stay on the keyboard. That is just one potential application. Who knows what other exciting applications developers will dream up? With technology like this, the future possibilities are beyond what we can even imagine.